Design and development of modular houses
with the possibility of adaptation to different levels of expansion and comfort.
FRAMEWORK
AdaptHouse project aims to develop an innovative modular construction concept by integrating design, functionality, customization, ecoefficiency and adaptability features in one product which will go beyond what’s currently available in both national and international markets.
In order to adapt to varying user requirements, the construction system developed in this project will be modular, prefabricated and flexible. Inspired by the concept of versatile modules connecting with each other, the construction system will be able to assume various architectural shapes, adjust to different sizes, and blend with both urban and natural environments through careful selection of the construction materials.
The prefabricated modules and submodules ought to integrate all technical infrastructures, including those associated with implementing a centralized, predictive and intelligent house management system through mobile devices for remote control (SMART). The structural solution must allow for the establishment of these homes in different locations subject to different wind, snow and seismic loads.
Furthermore, the chosen constructive solutions must ensure the attainment of the desired architecture, as well as of the intended comfort levels, particularly in terms of energy efficiency and acoustical performance - through the integration of solar technology and high acoustic performance materials.
SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
SMART
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Housing versality, through the application of sustainable construction principles, are highlighted as essential ingredients to respond to the concerns of the European Union's priorities, namely, with regard to sustainable and SMART growth strategies and the minimization of environmental impacts.
GOALS
The objectives proposed are graphically and intuitively represented in the diagram.
In the project stage, by developing kits and envisioning different scenarios it will be possible to optimize the product’s environmental performance during transport. Additionally, constructive processes will be developed to facilitate an easy disassembly and reassembly, as well as an easy separation of components and materials for reuse and integration in other systems at the products’ end-of-life.
In order to assess the overall behaviour of this kind of construction and ensure its adequate mechanical, hygrothermal and acoustic performance, reaction to fire, as well as durability, highly complex experimental and numerical studies will be carried out. Furthermore, a full-scale prototype will be developed in order to verify the need for optimization of the components and assembly/disassembly processes.
